Official: Sheffield United stalwart Nick Montgomery becomes a Mariner

02/09/2012 9:27:00 AM

Central midfielder Montgomery, 30, spurned offers in the United States and England to link up with Graham Arnold's side, strengthening the link between the Mariners and United

By SPORTAL

The Central Coast Mariners have announced the signing of highly experienced midfielder Nick Montgomery from Sheffield United.

Montgomery, 30, has made the switch to the A-League having made over 400 appearances for the English outfit in the English Premier League and Championship, bringing a wealth of experience to the Mariners.

Montgomery turned down offers from England's top three tiers and the MLS to make the move to Australia and said he was delighted to sign the contract.

"There were numerous options available," Montgomery said via Mariners statement on Saturday.

"I've turned down other offers and there was an enquiry from the MLS in America but both [wife] Josie and I have friends in Australia and this is a chance of a lifetime, amazing opportunity to experience something new."

Mariners head coach Graham Arnold described Montgomery as the perfect addition to his experienced squad, who was strongly endorsed by Sheffield United chairman and Mariners director Kevin McCabe.

"All my contacts in the UK can't speak highly enough of Nick Montgomery," Arnold said.

"He is a winner, a leader, and having lost Alex Wilkinson and Matt Simon recently, I knew it was crucial that we brought in a player who can influence not only a game, but the group as well.

"Nick's pedigree speaks for itself and at 30 some of his strongest years of football are still in front of him.

"He is fit having undergone pre-season with Sheffield United and we look forward to him arriving on the Central Coast shortly."

Central Coast Mariners chairman Peter Turnbull thanked McCabe for playing a big role in convincing Montgomery to chose the Mariners.

"Kevin helped no end in making this deal a reality and we appreciate his support," Turnbull said.

"In fact, with Kevin's help Nick has chosen to sign with Central Coast in favour of offers from clubs in England's top three tiers, and teams in the United States."

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